SinaFirst Limited
Buying Products from Chinese Domestic Suppliers? Here’s What You Should Know.
If you’re not in China but you’re purchasing goods from Chinese domestic suppliers and platforms with the idea of shipping them to your home country – and you already understand the basics and possible pitfalls – there’s one more thing to keep in mind:
Products made for the Chinese domestic market are designed and intended for Chinese consumers.
That means they may differ from export versions and come with a few nuances.
This is especially true for electronics or anything that requires assembly – like modular furniture or multi-part equipment.
Here are some common points buyers often overlook:
1. User Manuals
If a manual is provided at all, it’s nearly always in Chinese only. At best, the seller might share a video — also in Chinese, and usually unclear.
2. Installation & Assembly
There’s usually no installation or assembly guide, even in Chinese.
In China, local sellers usually offer free setup service: once the item is delivered, a technician comes and installs everything.
3. Language
If you’re buying devices, appliances or technical equipment, be aware: the control panel, buttons, and indicators are likely to be in Chinese — as well as the packaging and any built-in software.
4. Plug Type
If the product is powered by electricity, chances are it comes with a Chinese-style plug.
5. Warranty
Yes, many domestic products come with a warranty — but it’s valid only in China.
Bottom line
If any of these details are critical for your purchase, check with the seller in advance if there’s an export version or adjustments can be made to suit your needs.
Once you’ve received the goods, complaints most likely won’t help.
Don’t expect the seller to clarify everything upfront — that’s just not how it works in China.
A product made for China’s domestic market is not the same as its export version.
Always keep that in mind.
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